Gazzetta - Behind the scenes: here is what Mancini said to the Azzurri after the defeat to Belgium

The head coach's mood and thoughts after defeat on his debut

"The inside story: here is what Mancini said in the dressing room after the defeat to Belgium". That's the headline on Gazzetta.it, which describes the Italy head coach's mood after Friday evening's 0-2 defeat to Belgium at the Olimpico, the match that marked Roberto Mancini's return to the Italy bench and the debut of some new Azzurri. Yet it was above all the senior players who ended up in the dock, and they were the ones who made Mancini angry.

"Sandro Tonali together with Nicolò Barella in the middle, Giovanni Di Lorenzo together with Gianluca Mancini at the back, it is not a game of pairs, it is the translation of the concept of ‘senators’ being absent," the newspaper reads.

Gazzetta does not report Mancini's direct quotes, which remain strictly within the dressing room, but it does outline the meaning of his words: "In his words to the group gathered together there is a reflection seen through a lens of optimism: this must be the path, a long and not easy journey, but one that will take us far, very far. That is the essence of the Italy head coach's message. Mancini reminded his players of the mood of a nation of fans exasperated by what has not been achieved in recent years and, for this reason, the boos must be accepted and understood because they are born of bitterness and betrayed love".

Finally, "Mancini gathers the group and hands them a message to absorb without hesitation: on the right path, you need to bring the right attitude".

Whether the head coach's words start to make an impact on the minds of the Italy players, senior figures or otherwise, could become clear as early as tomorrow evening on Turkey's ground.